Today we learned Playboy ran a story that depicted a future where homosexuality was the norm, heterosexuality was outlawed and anti-straight mobs marched the streets. Outraged letters poured in. He responded “If it was wrong to persecute heterosexuals in a homosexual society, then the reverse was wrong, too.”
More at NBC: Playboy Founder Hugh Hefner: An Early Proponent of LGBTQ Rights — Playboy founder Hugh Hefner, undoubtedly a controversial figure, was also an early supporter of gay rights.
Once upon a time,
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Hugh Hefner created Playboy at his kitchen table in Chicago. The magazine was blamed for (or credited with) setting off a cultural revolution in America, but within a few years Hefner was branded a male chauvinist. He was a proponent of free speech and a champion of civil rights who was decried as a merchant of smut. He is being remembered by celebrities and former Playboy models as an “innovator” and a “revolutionary”.
Playboy founder Hugh Hefner dead at 91
Here’s a round-up of some of their comments:
“Hef changed my life. He made me the person I am today. I couldn’t be more thankful for our friendship and our time together. I will miss him so much but he will be in my heart forever.” — former Hefner girlfriend and Playboy model Kendra Wilkinson in a statement.
Hugh Hefner: Founder of Playboy and evangelist of sexual liberation, the man who turned the world on to sex
“thank u for picking me and Bringing me into the magical world of Playboy ! I just can’t stop crying and I can’t imagine how many bunnies are crying for u too. U are a class act and I will always have gratitude for your kindness” — actress-model Carmen Electra on Instagram.
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